UN Delegation Lands in Nairobi for Crucial IEBC Audit Ahead of 2027

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has initiated a collaborative process with the United Nations to assess Kenya’s preparedness for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from the United Nations Needs Assessment Mission (NAM), Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has reiterated the importance of collaboration with international partners to ensure a transparent, credible, and peaceful electoral process.

IEBC Assessment

The delegation, led by Mr. Akinyemi Adegbola, Principal Electoral Advisor for the UN East Africa Division, was received at Mudavadi’s Railways office in Nairobi.

The visit follows a formal request by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), initiated through a letter from its chairman, Erastus Ethekon, nominating the UN team to conduct a comprehensive assessment of Kenya’s electoral preparedness.

Mudavadi, who also serves as Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, welcomed the delegation’s mandate to objectively evaluate the political and electoral landscape and provide recommendations on the scope and modalities of UN support.

He noted that the government is systematically improving the electoral process and will continue to support IEBC without compromising its independence.

“This is a critical step in ensuring that Kenya continues to consolidate democratic gains and uphold the integrity of its electoral system. The government will know its limits and boundaries so that the independence of IEBC is kept intact.”

He further expressed the government’s desire for the 2027 elections to be successful, contributing to national stability and reinforcing Kenya’s reputation as a benchmark for electoral processes in the region and across the continent.

Mudavadi urged the UN team to consider the evolving role of technology, social media, and artificial intelligence in shaping electoral dynamics.

He reaffirmed the need to acknowledge both the opportunities and risks these tools present in the context of voter engagement, information dissemination, and electoral integrity.

“As you plan your assessment, I ask that you also consider the influence of technology, social media, and AI, and acknowledge their possible impact on the polls.”

The Prime Cabinet Secretary also called for broader stakeholder involvement in the electoral process, including faith-based organizations, civil society, the judiciary, and security agencies.

He stressed the importance of proactive engagement by all actors to ensure a well-coordinated and peaceful electioneering period.

UN’s Acknowledgement

On his part, Mr. Adegbola assured the government of the UN’s commitment to a thorough and responsive assessment.

He acknowledged the complexity of political engagement and emphasized the need for a balanced approach that respects national sovereignty while addressing real electoral needs.

“We always approach the request with a sense of modesty. There is always a paradox of where to draw the line in engaging with politics to ensure our assessment is responsive to the real issues.”

He noted that over time, the areas of need in Kenya’s electoral process have evolved, with the focus narrowing to specific technical and strategic aspects.

He added that the UN’s involvement in logistical support has reduced, reflecting the growing capacity of national institutions.

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The UN Needs Assessment Mission is expected to begin its assignment shortly, working closely with IEBC and other stakeholders to identify priority areas for support.

The findings will inform future UN engagement and technical assistance as Kenya approaches the 2027 elections.

Mudavadi has also reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to democratic governance and electoral integrity as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

Mudavadi concluded by assuring the delegation of the government’s full support and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process.

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The government has committed to respecting the independence of the IEBC while providing full support.

This includes logistical, financial, and institutional backing without compromising the commission’s autonomy.

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